Local electrical workers train on new solar technologies

ROCK COUNTY  Electricians in the Rock County area are getting a chance to upgrade their knowledge of current photovoltaic technologies through a state grant.

Governor Jim Doyle is announcing $270,000 will be shared among nine local units of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers to provide the training.

Business manager of local 890 of IBEW, Leo Sokolik, says he expects about 1/3 of the approximately 400 members of the local to participate. The 15 week course will show electricians how to install the latest solar technologies, safely.

Sokolik says they will be installing a 2,000 watt system on their Janesville building so students can learn firsthand about these systems.